After publishing a story about the two pythons that were killed by a villager at Makonde, Mirror received an overwhelming response from members of the community.

Although there are some community members who regarded the python killer as a hero who protected his family and community against the serpents, nature lovers came out spitting fire, saying it is illegal to kill endangered species like pythons. (See a letter elsewhere in the paper).

After the reaction, Mirror approached the acting deputy manager of the Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism in Vhembe, Mr Frank Muthelo, in connection with the situation. Muthelo raised his concern about the people, especially from rural areas, who take the law into their own hands.

Muthelo said there is no person who is allowed to kill an endangered species, because it is against the law. "We have for a long time been preaching to our communities that they must contact us whenever they come across wild animals or snakes in their communities, rather than to kill them. Endangered species and our wildlife in general should be preserved for the sake of the future generations."

Muthelo said what is needed is the cooperation between the environment officers and the communities. "We only need to work together and educate our communities about this matter. Our job is to protect those species that need protection as per legislation of this country."

He said people should call environmental officers whenever they come across wild animals or snakes. "We never waste time when we receive calls from community members. We send a team of experienced environmental officials to take action. If we find that the species are dangerous to human life, we get rid of them. Some species, like friendly snakes, are taken to the dense bush where they will enjoy life without problems."

Community members who come across wild animals like lions, elephants and snakes can call Muthelo at 082 802 4199 or Mr HT Hlungwani at 082 904 5867.